News Archive

Severe weather headed for North East

Victoria State Emergency Service (SES) advises communities and businesses across the North East that damaging winds, heavy rain and flash flooding may result in some extreme storm behaviour.

These storms are likely to create dangerous conditions on the roads and with possible damage to roofs, buildings, signs, trees and powerlines.

Current advice indicates that there is likely to be two parts to this severe weather:

First band of storms

From early this evening, storms fuelled by warm daytime conditions and a south west wind change may result in very damaging winds and possibly large hail.

Second band of storms

From around midnight tonight through to late Friday morning, a south west wind change and a cold front meeting a warm front may lead to the possibility of extreme storm activity or behaviour including heavy rainfall, flash flooding, hail and very damaging winds.

Wind gusts in this storm could uproot even large trees, damage roofs and pick up loose items that could break windows.

SES recommends that you do not drive during the storm unless essential. Drive with great care and be alert for debris over roads. Sheltering inside a solid building or inside a vehicle is safer than being out in the open.

These damaging storm conditions are predicted to ease and then clear during Friday morning.

Potential impact in your area

The potential local impact of this severe weather in your area may include:

Building damage

Fallen power lines

Fallen trees and branches

Flooding inside your home or buildings

Landslips

Previous bushfire area watch

In areas affected by bushfires last summer, SES advises that rainfall run-off in these fire affected areas may contain debris such as soil, ash, trees and rocks. People in these areas should be alert to the potential for landslide and debris over roads.

What you should do

In the interests of community safety the SES suggests you take the following precautions:

Act Quickly - conditions can change rapidly

Move vehicles under cover or away from trees.

Secure or put away loose items around your house, yard and balcony. Check that loose items such as outdoor settings, umbrellas and trampolines are safely secured.